State Rep. Rob Leighton (DFL-Austin) served in the Minnesota House with distinction for four terms.

When he announced he would not seek re-election after his current term, representing District 27B, it caused a stir as the House District 27B has been a longtime Democratic seat.

However, just two years ago, Austin High School teacher, Jeff Anderson, the Republican-endorsed canddiate, lost to Leighton by only 500 votes.

Anderson is back.

Jeanne Poppe, the veteran Austin City Council member, is the DFL-endorsed candidate for District 27B.

She won her party's endorsement last March and wants to keep the DFL's string of victories intact.

Here are the candidates' profiles in their own words:

Jeff Anderson

Prior elective office experience:

I have not held a publicly elected office.

Profession:

Austin High School social studies teacher

Why are you seeking this office?

I value public service and feel that I can represent this area with my values and ideas.

We need a strong voice for rural issues in this time of government deficit and I believe I am the person that can best serve in that capacity.

What is the top priority in the government jurisdiction you seek to serve?

I believe that the biggest problem facing the State of Minnesota in the next legislative session is the projected budget deficit.

How would you fix that problem?

I believe it is a two-step process. First we need to look to government and see where there are areas that are able to be made more efficient. There are areas that are duplicated and programs that can be streamlined. I believe that in this economy that we need to look to reduce government spending in order to conquer most of the budget deficit. Secondly, if we are honest, it is rather clear that will be virtually impossible to fix the budget problem with spending cuts alone. We will have to find other ways to increase revenue until we see the economy recover.

What are your thoughts on public service?

I believe that public service is one of the highest callings for people in a democracy. Without it our form of government could not operate. The key is "service." I believe that people want a representative that is going to serve their interests first. I believe that I can do that.

Jeanne Poppe

Prior elective office experience Austin City Council eight years (two terms)

Profession: College Counselor at Riverland Community College

Why are you seeking

this office?

I am seeking this office because I have a combination of skills and relevant experience to do the job well. I have held elective office and understand the pressure that can be involved. Serving on the city council has allowed me to be an active participant in policy making.

Additionally, I grew up on a farm in southeastern Minnesota and have lived in Austin nearly 20 years, so I believe I am a good representative of this district. My work as a college counselor has given me the perspective of what higher education means to many students and their families. And I know the sacrifices people make to follow their dreams. As a parent of three teenagers, I understand how important our public education system is. I know that not every child is the same and we need an educational system that meets the needs of all children.

What is the top priority in House District 27B?

My top priority is to resolve the budget crisis and adequately meet the needs of the people of our district.

I would work hard to represent all residents of District 27B.

How would you nurture economic growth in District 27B?

Voters have told me they have priorities of education, health care funding and economic development and I would bring these priorities to the forefront.

To fix the budget crisis we have to meet the problem head on. We must take a complete look at all options. We must solve the budget deficit and when doing so cannot put people out of work or business.